BLUF

Cost-per-effect analysis must account for the full operational, sustainment, and production costs of a capability, not just the headline price of individual munitions. True effectiveness considers both tactical outcomes and scalability under wartime conditions.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand why acquisition cost alone misrepresents the true cost of using a weapon system in operations.
  • Recognise the importance of including operational, sustainment, and production factors in cost-per-effect assessments.
  • Apply a comprehensive cost-per-effect framework to evaluate trade-offs, tactics, and procurement decisions in complex operational environments when appropriate.

References